Medical Dermatology

Dermatology, Cosmetic & Laser Surgery for NYC, Manhattan & Worldwide

There are dozens of skin conditions that plague men and women across America and abroad. At JUVA Skin & Laser Center in Manhattan, we strive to assist those struggling with any number of medical conditions from acne to vitiligo. You don’t need to be embarrassed by your skin; our award-winning dermatologist, Dr. Bruce Katz, can help you transform your complexion through one or more of our laser and skin care procedures.

Acne

The most common skin condition in America is acne. Although it's common, finding accurate information about acne can be difficult. This scarcity can make it hard to achieve clearer skin. Acne affects people of all ethnic backgrounds and about 85-100% of people will be affected by it at some point in their lives. The common cause of acne is puberty, but a rising number of women in their 30s, 40s, 50s and older have acne.

There are several types of acne:

Whiteheads

Blackheads

Papules

Pustules

Cysts

Nodules

Additionally, acne can appear on the chest, back, shoulders, neck, buttocks and upper arms. Studies show that people who have acne can have low self-esteem, depression, dark spots on the skin and scars.

There are multiple factors that cause acne. The most common causes are bacterial (p.acnes bacteria), inflammation, abnormal skin differentiation and excess oil production.

There are also physical modality treatments such as the Aerolase laser and ALA-PDL treatment along with chemical peels to name a few.

Aerolase® Neo

The Aerolase Neo is an aesthetic medical device that provides a premium patient experience unrivaled in dermatology and skin care. Uniquely gentle, the Neo offers complete skin rejuvenation including in a safe, effective, and tolerable treatment for all skin types and tones. The Neo’s unique 650-microsecond technology is attracted to a combination of melanin, hemoglobin, and water in the skin tissue – which contribute to your skin’s signs of aging. The Neo’s energy passes through the skin to selectively heat these targets without adverse effects – resulting in clear, healthy skin. The 650-microsecond pulse eliminates discomfort during treatment and provides safe, highly efficacious results for even the darkest skin tones. It also treats acne and gives nice skin rejuvenation.

Acne breakouts and lesions can result in scarring and appear as elevations (hypertrophic scars) or more commonly depressions (ice pick scarring, rolling scars, etc.).

Athlete’s Foot

Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) is a common fungal disease of the superficial layer of the skin. It is contagious via direct contact from others infected, inanimate objects such as locker room floors, public showers or towels.

Treatment can consist of topical or oral treatment, depending on disease severity, which in consultation with our dermatologist, will be tailored to best suit your condition.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Atopic dermatitis — commonly known as eczema — is a recurrent, red and itchy rash, which typically appears on the arms and legs. However, eczema can appear anywhere. It has the tendency to flare with subsequent resolution. An estimated 10% of people worldwide are affected by atopic dermatitis at some point in their life. Atopic dermatitis manifests differently in infants, children and adults. However, flares often subside or become less severe as a person ages.

There is a hereditary component to eczema, and it can be accompanied by asthma or hay fever. Triggers can include extreme temperature, stress, infection, dry skin, irritants and allergens — contact allergens can be determined by Patch Testing.

No cure has been found for the condition, but prescription treatments and self-care measures can relieve itching and help minimize new outbreaks. A consultation with one of our providers at JUVA will help find the best treatment course that suits your needs.

Birthmarks and Port-Wine Stains

Birthmarks are a very common congenital skin mark that is typically benign. Birthmarks are caused by the overgrowth of one or more different types of tissues within the skin. The six most common types of birthmarks are:

Café au lait spot

Congenital nevus

Slate gray nevus (Mongolian spot)

Port-wine stain

Salmon patches/stork bites

Hemangioma

Treatment, medical or cosmetic, may or may not be required based on type, size, location and other factors.

Of note, salmon patches, port-wine stains and hemangiomas can be treated with laser technology such as the Pulse-Dye Laser.

Diseases of the Hair

Our dermatologist and experienced staff can help you improve any hair disease you may have including excess body hair and Alopecia.

Defined as hair loss, Alopecia can have many different patterns and is classified as scarring and non-scarring. The most common concern we see in our patients is generally referred to as Androgenetic Alopecia—Male or Female Pattern Hair Loss.

From genetics to hormones, a variety of factors interplay in the hair loss process. Fortunately, newer, clinically proven treatments have been developed. At JUVA, we offer Platelet Rich Plasma therapy (PRP). Typically this treatment is supplemented with Viviscal, which is an oral and topical supplement that works synergistically with PRP.

At JUVA, we take a comprehensive approach to excess hair loss. There can be underlying hormonal causes, or simply a genetic predisposition. We offer a variety of hair loss options including the Vectus Laser.

Diseases of the Nails

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails. It can occur on the finger and toenails. Not all nail thickening or discoloration is a fungal infection. Age, trauma, underlying health conditions and yeast infections, can mimic fungal infections. An assessment by a dermatologist, with appropriate testing will help to identify the underlying cause of nail issues.

At JUVA, we have numerous treatments for nail fungus such as laser therapy.

Dry Skin

Xerosis cutis, or dry skin, is the condition of itchy, scaling skin beyond what that is typical for an individual. There are numerous causes of dry skin to include, age, medications, previous extent of ultraviolet exposure, seasonal changes, and underlying medical conditions. Therapies consist of at home therapies, hygiene routine modifications and prescription therapies.

At JUVA, our dermatologists are skilled in dealing with various dry skin conditions and can help to alleviate it.

Excessive Perspiration

Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, is a common condition that affects the hands and armpits, but the soles and face can also be affected. Hyperhidrosis can be caused by medications, stress or underlying medical conditions. However, it is common not to identify an underlying cause.

Fortunately, there are numerous therapies for hyperhidrosis. We offer BOTOX® and laser therapy (SculpSure™) for successful treatment of hyperhidrosis.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a contagious bacterial condition that typically develops in children, particularly on the face. Older adults or people with diabetes or weak immune systems will likely develop the more serious version known as ecthyma.

When the right antimicrobial treatment is used, the eruption usually clears within 7 to 10 days. Impetigo usually is not dangerous, however, complications can develop such as scarring, cellulitis (deeper skin infection) and kidney problems.

Keloids

Keloids are elevated scars that extend beyond the original borders in areas of trauma (previously injured skin, such as burns or lacerations). Keloids can also spontaneously occur, without any prior trauma to the area. Keloids are frequently symptomatic with itching and pain. Keloid treatment usually consists of cortisone injections. At JUVA, we will implement a unique treatment regimen tailored to your scars’ location, size and symptoms. There is hope for your scars!

Melasma

Melasma is a common disorder of persistent dark patches on the face. Some causes include hormone level changes in women during pregnancy or oral contraceptive use. Some medications and ultraviolet light exposure can also contribute to this condition. Darker skinned individuals are more susceptible to melasma.

Our doctors and staff at JUVA have a variety of treatments available for melasma to include our proprietary lightening creams, laser treatment with the Picosure laser, along with chemical peels and dermabrasion.

Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery, also known as Mohs micrographic surgery, is a surgical procedure used to treat skin cancers and other atypical growths. This is known as a tissue-sparing surgery that does not require general anesthesia. The surgery is performed using a local anesthetic and is done on an outpatient basis.

Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types of skin cancers treated. Mohs surgery is utilized for skin cancers that meet certain criteria to include:

Skin cancers located in anatomically sensitive areas, such as the mouth, nose, eyes, ears, hairline, hands, feet and genitals. These are areas where you want to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible.

Cancers that are large or have an aggressive subtype.

Cancers that have the potential for a risk of recurrence or that have recurred after previous treatment.

Skin cancers that are ill-defined.

The process consists of the progressive removal and examination of thin layers of skin known as stages. These layers contain cancer until all of the cancerous tissue is removed. The surgical technique is very precise and in most cases can take a few hours. However, sometimes more complex cases can last an entire day.

The unique aspect of the Mohs technique is that it allows surgeons to ensure and verify that all cancer cells have been removed at the time of the surgery. Therefore, Mohs has the highest cure rate of all skin cancer treatments.

At JUVA Skin & Laser Center, we have a surgery team dedicated only to Mohs surgery. If your provider determines you need Mohs, you will be treated in our office without the need for further referrals.

Moles

Moles, also known as nevi, are one of the most common growths on the skin. Moles vary in appearance from light tan to dark brown and they can even appear as black, red, pink or blue. Moles can be wrinkled, raised, flat or smooth. Some moles even have hair growth. They can show at birth or can develop as one ages. Most moles appear before forty years of age.

Moles can develop anywhere on your body including your:

Scalp

Beneath your nails

Between toes and fingers

Armpits

Many medical professionals including the Mayo Clinic recommend this ABCDE guide for self-examination to assess moles and determine if your mole could be considered “atypical:”

A — Asymmetry: One-half of the mole does not look like the other half.

B — Border: The outline of the mole is irregular.

C — Color: More than one color can be seen, such as brown, black, red, blue and white.

D — Diameter: A mole larger than 6 mm (1/4 inch), which is roughly the size of a pencil eraser.

E — Evolving: Changes in the mole over time.

The appearance of cancerous (malignant) moles varies greatly. Malignant moles may showcase all of the aspects listed above or just one or two.

Changes in moles, from size to color to shape, will warrant a skin check. It is imperative to be evaluated for melanoma. Some people have a higher than normal chance of developing moles that become cancerous.

Psoriasis

There is a hereditary component to psoriasis, as 30% of psoriasis patients have a family member with psoriasis. There are several forms of psoriasis; some can be triggered by certain situations like emotional stress, injury to the skin, infection and various medications.

There are numerous topical, oral and injectable treatments for psoriasis.

At JUVA, we have the X-TRAC excimer laser, which is one of the most effective and safest treatments for psoriasis.

Shingles

Shingles (also known as herpes zoster) is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. It appears as a group of blisters that wrap around a side of the face, neck body, leg or arm. It most commonly occurs on the torso.

Shingles is typically preceded by a prickling sensation, followed by rash development. Flu-like symptoms can develop and the rash can be painful and result in persistent pain.

Symptoms or signs of shingles include:

Itching

Touch sensitivity

Red rash beginning a few days after the pain

Tingling, numbness, pain or burning

Blisters filled with fluid that crust over and break

Vaccines can help reduce the risk of shingles and early treatment can help shorten the infection. Treatment success depends on how quickly treatment is started. It is best to start oral treatment as soon as the blisters develop to ensure the quickest resolution and to minimize complications.

Skin Cancer (Melanoma)

Melanoma is the most serious skin cancer that is encountered on a daily basis, as it has the significant potential to spread deeper into the body. In recent years, it has increased in the frequency of diagnosis. Melanoma can arise from a benign-appearing mole or from healthy, mole-free skin.

Melanoma usually occurs on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun, but it can be found anywhere on the body, including the eye, mouth, anus and genital area. Melanoma usually develops for men on the head, neck and trunk. For women, it most likely develops on the legs and arms. There are several genes identified in melanoma development.

The appearance of cancerous (malignant) moles varies greatly. Please see our ABCDE checklist in the mole portion of this page to determine which moles can be considered “atypical.”

Risk factors for developing melanoma include:

Family history of diagnosis

Fair skin/light eyes

A tendency to freckle

A large number of moles

History of frequent sun exposure (especially in childhood)

History of sunburns

History of indoor tanning

A decreased immune system such as that found in transplant patients and patients with HIV/AIDS

If you are due for a skin check or have moles you are concerned about, please schedule a skin check appointment with one of our providers as soon as possible. Your health cannot wait!

Skin Tags or Skin Biopsy

A skin biopsy involves removing a sample of your skin to be evaluated under a microscope in order to facilitate diagnosis. There are two main types of skin biopsies:

Shave biopsy: Using a razor-like tool, a doctor removes the top layers of skin in a small area.

Punch biopsy: Using a circular tool, a doctor punctures the skin to remove deeper layers of skin in a small section.

After the procedure, the samples are sent to a pathology laboratory for evaluation. We will then receive a written report detailing the results. A completed report may take several days or a couple of weeks, depending on the type and indication for the biopsy.

Spider Veins

Spider veins, or telangiectasias, are dilated superficial blood vessels. They can manifest as red, blue or purple vessels, usually less than 1-3mm wide and several millimeters to centimeters in length. They may disappear temporarily when pressed on with one finger.

Spider veins are common in all types of people and can be caused by aging, sun damage or genetics. Spider veins found on the legs may not indicate that you have a vein disorder such as an underlying deep vein problem or varicose veins. However, spider veins are commonly found with a variety of other diseases.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are veins that are swollen and twisted, which can be seen and sometimes felt protruding from the skin. They commonly occur on the legs but can be seen in other parts of the body. It is caused when one-way valves that are used to keep the blood flowing to the heart are backed up and pools of blood build up within the vein. When this occurs, the veins swell and become visible. Although varicose veins are very common, people who are at a higher risk of developing them are females, obese people and those who live a sedentary lifestyle. They are also more common during pregnancy.

At JUVA Skin & Laser Center, our providers have numerous treatments for varicose veins including sclerotherapy and the Cynergy laser.

Vitiligo

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease, whereby the immune cells of the body attack the melanocytes within the skin. This results in a localized loss of pigment, which can be on the skin or even hair. Vitiligo can be associated with underlying conditions such as thyroid disease, alopecia areata, diabetes mellitus, Addison disease and myasthenia gravis. It occurs at all ages and can affect people of all races.

At JUVA, we have the XTRAC excimer laser, which is one of the most effective treatments in restoring the pigment in vitiligo.

Why Choose JUVA Skin & Laser Center in New York?

Our Director, Dr. Katz, is a renowned dermatologist who has been repeatedly featured as one of the best doctors in New York by New York Magazine. When you choose JUVA Skin & Laser Center for your aesthetic and medical needs, you can trust that you are in internationally recognized hands. Dr. Katz has also been a guest on The Today Show, The View, Good Morning America and several other well-known television shows.

Dr. Katz and our skilled staff are dedicated to providing our patients with the most advanced laser technologies and skin care techniques and products in order to help you achieve the best results possible for your appearance and health.

If you struggle with any of the skin conditions we’ve discussed, please contact JUVA Skin & Laser Center in Manhattan today at (212) 688-5882 to schedule your consultation. We serve clients in Manhattan, New York City, nationwide and internationally.

Disclaimer: The information throughout this dermatology website is not intended to be taken as medical advice. The information provided by JUVA Skin & Laser Center is intended to provide general information regarding surgical and non-surgical cosmetic treatments for residents of New York City, Manhattan, Woodside and nearby areas in New York. This website is not intended for viewing or usage by European Union citizens.If you are interested in finding out more, please contact us today for a personal consultation.